Nick Kyrgios shares heartfelt message for Andy Murray

EXPLAINER: Andy Murray eyes retiring after Australian Open

EXPLAINER: Andy Murray eyes retiring after Australian Open

LONDON, ENGLAND - JUNE 19: Andy Murray of Great Britain reacts as he is beaten by Nick Kyrgios of Australia during Day 2 of the Fever-Tree Championships at Queens Club on June 19, 2018 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)Source:Getty Images

This is a side of Nick Kyrgios we rarely get to see. A softer, heartfelt side to the usual larrikin we’re accustomed too.

Now Nick Kyrgios has become the latest to share heartfelt words about the lion-hearted Scottish superstar.

In a touching tribute on his personal Instagram page, Kyrgios shared images of the duo along with just how much the star meant to him and his own career.

“Andy, I know you take me for a joker most of the time, but at least hear me out on this one old friend,” Kyrgios wrote

“You will always be someone that impacted the sport in so many different ways, I know this was never the way you wanted to go out, but hey it was a heck of a ride.

“You took me under your wing as soon as I got on tour, and to this day you have been someone I literally just look forward to seeing.

“You are one crazy tennis player, miles better than me, but I just want you to know that today isn’t only a sad day for you and your team, it’s a sad day for the sport and for everyone you’ve had an impact on. Which leaves me big fella. these are a couple photos, that should make you smile and think, I was actually a little bit of a younger brother to you.

“Anyways, I just want you to know, and I’m sure you already do, everyone wants you to keep fighting and to keep being you. Goodluck at the Australian Open muzz, I’ll be behind you.”

Kyrgios and Murray have squared off six times over the years, with Murray holding the 5-1 advantage over the Aussie.

The only win for Kyrgios came last year when he got the better of Murray during the London/Queen’s Club tournament.

Of course there most famous duel came back in 2015 at the Austrailan Open when Kyrgios was making a name for himself with a charge into the quarter-finals.

Kyrgios had just become the first Australian male since Lleyton Hewitt in 2005 to move beyond the fourth round, but Murray spoiled the party.

It ended up being a straight sets victory for Murray but it set in motion an unlikely friendship between the two firey competitors.

With the Australian Draw released, the two can only meet if they both make their way through to the final.

After his teary announcement, Kyrgios won’t be the only one behind Murray when the tournament gets underway. It would be a more than fitting farewell to a star of the court if he was able to pull off the fairytale finish.